Proverbs 18:23
“The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.”
What does Proverbs 18:23 mean?
This verse describes a stark reality of human nature: when someone desperate and poor comes asking for help, they approach humbly and with courtesy. But wealthy people, who often lack that same sense of need, tend to respond with coldness or dismissal instead of compassion. It's not saying this is how things should be, but rather how they often are when power and resources create distance between people. The observation cuts both ways: it reminds us that desperation teaches humility, while comfort can harden our hearts. If you find yourself in either position, it's worth pausing to consider what your circumstances might be teaching you about how to treat others.